Through subtle yet impactful changes, Trinity Rep creates 'A Christmas Carol' for all
PROVIDENCE - Trinity Repertory Company typically straddles the line between tradition and innovation when it comes to its annual staging of Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol,” much to the angst of some theater-goers who react differently to female Scrooges, alien ghosts and other choices.
This year’s production, however, should appeal to everyone as director Stephen Thorne returns to original texts for inspiration, introducing subtle yet impactful changes that enhance the heartwarming holiday tale of redemption.
Thorne’s choices in this two-hour, ghost-guided journey to the past, present and future of a miserable and miserly Victorian man are edgy yet compelling, deepening the story’s impact.
A female Fred, child of Scrooge’s beloved late sister? Yes, and Alison Russo steps into the role with gusto, delivering a beautiful rendition of “Spread a Little Happiness” in the second act.
Nix the chains dragging down the ghost of Scrooge’s business partner, Jacob Marley, played with palpable agony by Rodney Witherspoon II? Yes. Thorne introduces wraiths called the tormented. Tethered to purgatory, they fly in from all sides and eventually wrap ropes around Marley, whose back arches sharply as he warns Scrooge of a similar fate, “You choose not to understand!”
Replace the physical condition requiring Tiny Tim to use a crutch with a neurodivergent actor? Yes, yes, yes! The change is subtle but speaks to the inclusivity of theater and the impact of a child actor sharing holiday blessings.
The strength of any “Christmas Carol” also hinges on the portrayal of Scrooge, a curmudgeon whose heart and mind opens to the beauty of life and the importance of giving. Thorne made perhaps his wisest choice in Mauro Hantman.
A Trinity regular, Hantman, playing the role for the first time since 2010, channels such force into the anger and joy the character experiences that it’s hard to believe it will be his last turn. His performance summons all the best memories of Timothy Crowe, an audience favorite playing Scrooge more times than anyone else.
This, however, is a cast rich with talent. Phyllis Kay is delightfully sassy Mrs. Dilber, Scrooge’s maid. Jeff Church dons a white and mirrored suit and top hat as an ebullient Ghost of Christmas Past, later striking an eerie Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come. Taavon Gamble is sheer delight as the Ghost of Christmas Present, emerging in what looks like a quilt belted in the middle that flips into a multi-layered tulle skirt, topped with Carmen Miranda-esque fruit fringe and holly crown. Richard Donnelly is a joyous Fezziwig, Scrooge’s first employer, leading a pot and pan jam band with glee.
The set is also a clever element of this production. Designed with eight aisles, two other openings and a catwalk designating London streets, the set allows Thorne to move his cast and musicians in and out quickly and regularly. A nook for Scrooge’s home allows Hantman to interact with nearby audience members.
Get in the spirit: Light up your holidays with these 10 events across RI and nearby
Trapdoors in the stage also contribute to a powerful climax in Scrooge’s visit to the future, with holes serving as graves for a wagon to dump a shrouded body.
“A Christmas Carol” never disappoints as a warm seasonal message. Trinity has presented dozens of variations through the years, but this year’s rendition marked by Thorne’s insightful vision might just be one of the best.
The show is on stage through Dec. 31. For more information and tickets, go to www.trinityrep.com.
Editor's note: This story was updated to reflect that Mauro Hartmart has played the role of Scrooge before.
This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: 'A Christmas Carol' at Trinity Rep brings the holiday tale to all
